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5 Things to Do Before Moving to a New City

All residential moves come with challenges. The transition from one city to another can be especially tricky. Feeling at home in a new location can take time, and it isn’t easy to know a lot about an area until you are actually a resident. To help make your residential relocation painless, look at a few things to do before moving to a new city. 

1. Visit First

Schedule a quick visit to the city you plan to move to. Also, book an Airbnb or local hotel room to spend the night or even a few days. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the location's environment and get familiar with the area. However, spending a little time in the new city will also provide the opportunity to interact with locals and do a bit of exploring as far as shopping availability and local things to do.

2. Review Financial Factors

The move from one city to another can bring about financial changes that will be important to know before you decide to become a resident. The cost of living can vary significantly from one zip code to the next. Therefore, everyday necessities like gas and food may come with different prices depending on where you are. Nerdwallet offers a good resource that allows you to compare the cost of living in two different cities.

Other financial factors to consider include: 

  • The average hourly rate of pay or salary for certain employment positions 

  • The costs of utilities and services that you will need as a resident 

  • The cost of local property and vehicle taxes 

3. Research Prospective Neighborhoods

How much neighborhoods can differ within the same city can be impressive. Factors like crime rates, noise, distance to school or work, and property values can be significantly different. As you search for a new place to live in the new city, dig deeper to evaluate the differences in specific neighborhoods to find the ideal place to live. 

4. Consider Employment and Career Changes

Will your move to a new city involve looking for a new job? If so, employment and career availability are essential to consider before you move. If you have professional qualifications or simple employment preferences, the demand for different employees can look different everywhere. Take a look at the local employment office to evaluate job listings. Additionally, reach out to prospective employers and find out if they have openings that would apply to you. 

5. Investigate Local Transportation Availability

If you need to rely on public transportation to get around, examine what is available in the new city. Is there a local public bus or subway system? Are taxis or rideshare services available in the area? Look at what options are available, but also at the costs and if there are ways to save, such as annual bus passes. 

Plan Ahead with the Help of Professional Movers 

While moving to a new city can be disconcerting, well-laid plans can help. Bringing in the aid of professional movers to get your belongings to the new place can lighten the load. Ready to discuss your upcoming move? Contact us for a free quote.